Wind advisory issued for Big Island summits

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The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a wind advisory for the Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea summits through 6 a.m. Saturday.

The service forecast south winds of 45 mph to 55 mph with higher gusts for elevations above 8,000 feet.

The Mauna Kea Weather Center reported at 8:07 a.m. that the Mauna Kea Access Road was closed at the Visitor Information Station because of icy road conditions and very high winds. The current temperature is 29 degrees.

A high wind advisory means that winds of at least 30 mph and gusts over 50 mph are forecast, according to the service. Winds this strong can bring down tree branches. Motorists are advised to use extra caution or to postpone travel until the winds subside.